Will Joel Embiid Play Tonight? Latest Update on the 76ers’ MVP Before the Thunder Game

Over the past week, videos of Joel Embiid in the workout with the Philadelphia 76ers  have been a ray of hope. During his 35-game absence, the Sixers have fallen to the 8th seed. So, naturally, the reigning MVP‘s return, recovering from a knee injury would significantly bolster the rooster, especially since Tyrese Maxey is dealing with an injury. However, the Sixers might have to wait a bit longer before Embiid steps on the hardwood again.

According to journalist Tim Bontemps’ post on X,” The Sixers said Joel Embiid was not at shootaround this morning here in Philadelphia before tonight’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Tyres Maxey was at shootaround, and remains questionable with left hip tightness after sitting out Sunday’s win in Toronto.”

This is alarming news for Philly as they face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder on a challenging path toward playoffs. In the Sixer’s injury report, Embiid and Maxey have been ruled out. While the Sixers did win against the Raptors without them, thanks to Kelly Oubre Jr’s 35-point outing, it’s less likely to happen with OKC.

The Thunder are currently at 52-22 in the Western Conference and will be looking to end the regular season at the top. More so considering the Denver Nuggets are just one loss away from them. Hence, Embiid dropping out of the season benefits the OKC in more than one way.

Joel Embiid dropping out helped Shai’s MVP Chances

The OKC’s front man Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is currently the frontrunner for this year’s MVP race. With 30.3 points, and 2.1 steals a night, Shai will probably win MVP. However, if Embiid hadn’t sustained the injury, the title would have likely been his for the second time in a row. Across 34 regular-season games, he maintained impressive averages of 35.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, which is likely one of the greatest offensive seasons in league history.

However, in the 7ft center’s case, it’s not just the numbers it’s also his impact on the team. With Embiid on the floor, the Sixers were 26-8, and in his absence, they fell short monumentally with a record of 14 wins and 27 losses. This goes to illustrate the actual consequence of his absence, and why his being on the roster would greatly increase Philly’s chances come playoff time.

With only 7 games left before the post-season, it’s crucial for the Sixers that Embiid returns to health. Do you think there is a chance of that happening? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Read More: “The League Is In Trouble”: Joel Embiid’s Latest Workout Video Sends Sixers Fans on High Alert, Ignites Finals Run Hope